November 12, 2026---A two-member delegation of scientists from the Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB), University of the Punjab, Lahore, visited Baku, Azerbaijan, for a 15-day scientific and research exchange under an ongoing research project supported by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB). The visit was aimed at strengthening the research capacity of scientists at the partner institute, the Genetic Resources Institute (GRI), Baku, Azerbaijan, through scientific interaction, knowledge sharing, and exposure to advanced research facilities and technologies. The delegation comprised Prof. Dr. Abdul Qayum Rao and Dr. Allah Bakhsh from the Agriculture Division, CEMB, University of the Punjab. In addition to the planned capacity-building activities at GRI, the delegation visited several leading research institutions in Azerbaijan, including:Genetic Resources Institute, Ministry of Science and Education, Baku, Azerbaijan; Institute of Viticulture and Enology, Ministry of Agriculture, Baku, Azerbaijan; Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Education, Baku, Azerbaijan. At each institution, the delegation held productive meetings with directors, senior scientists, and researchers. The scientists also visited laboratories, gene banks, experimental fields, and other research facilities, where they gained insights into ongoing research programmes, germplasm conservation and utilization, and the application of modern biotechnological tools in agricultural research. The visits provided valuable opportunities for scientific exchange and in-depth discussions on potential areas of collaboration, including joint research projects, co-authored scientific publications, exchange of scientists and students, germplasm exchange, and further capacity-building initiatives. Particular emphasis was placed on plant biotechnology, crop improvement, conservation and sustainable utilization of genetic resources, and molecular biology. Both Pakistani and Azerbaijani scientists expressed keen interest in strengthening institutional linkages and developing long-term collaborative research initiatives. The interactions highlighted the immense potential for scientific cooperation between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, particularly in advancing agricultural research, promoting innovation, conserving plant genetic resources, and contributing to regional food security. The 15-day visit concluded in a cordial and friendly atmosphere, with both sides reaffirming their mutual commitment to sustaining scientific interaction and fostering meaningful research partnerships in the future. The visit represents an important step towards achieving the objectives of the IsDB-supported research project by promoting international scientific cooperation and strengthening research and technical capacities at the partner institution, GRI, Baku, Azerbaijan.
News · 13 November 2026